Korogocho Ward MCA Absalom Odhiambo. PHOTO: Kevin Cheruiyot
Korogocho Member of County Assembly (MCA) Absalom Odhiambo wants the government to protect MCAs across the country following the death of their colleague in Kakamega County.
Mr Odhiambo argued MCAs are close to the members of the public and their frequent interaction exposes them, some being forced to hire bodyguards.
Speaking at the Nairobi County Assembly buildings on Wednesday, the MCA said that they have been saddened by the death of Kisa East Ward representative Stephen Maloba, who was stabbed by the suspect who is currently in police custody.
Mr Odhiambo has claimed that MCAs have been given little attention by the government in the devolved functions and that there is a need for changes to ensure that they are enjoying the same privileges as Members of Parliament.
“MCAs wamekua wakidharauliwa sana kwa taifa la Kenya. MCAs wanachukuliwa ni kama hao si kitu na hao ndio wako na kazi ngumu kwa ward (MCAs have been belittled in this country. MCAs are being treated like nothing yet they are playing critical roles at ward levels),” Mr Odhiambo said.
“I’m asking the government to give MCAs guns and bodyguards who are also armed without delay or else we’ll be killed.”
He has asked the Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome to give attention to their outcry and act without hesitation.
Kisa East Ward MCA was reportedly attacked by a group of 10 youths before one of them drew a knife from his jacket and stabbed him in the chest and left hand.
The MCA was pronounced dead by doctors at Mbale County Hospital in Vihiga where he was rushed for treatment.
Kakamega Police Commander Joseph Kigen confirmed the arrest of the suspect who will remain in custody as they continue with their investigations.
“I can confirm we have the suspect in custody and investigations into the murder of the MCA are ongoing. We have managed to get orders to hold him for 14 to finalise the investigations,” Mr Kigen told the media.
The residents of Kisa East moved to the streets on Monday to protest the death of their representative, asking the police and the detectives to ensure that the culprits are brought to book.
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